How to Sell a House As-Is: Options, Disclosures and What You'll Get
Updated November 1, 2026
CallARealtor is an independent information site, not a real estate brokerage, and is not affiliated with the National Association of REALTORS®. Guides are general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules vary by state.
Short answer: selling "as-is" means you won't make repairs or give credits, and the buyer accepts the home in its current condition. It does not excuse you from your state's disclosure laws, and buyers usually still inspect. You can sell as-is to a cash or investor buyer for speed, or list it as-is on the open market, which usually reaches more buyers. Compare net proceeds, not just offer prices.
Your options compared
| Option | Speed | Price | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cash buyer / investor | Fast | Typically below market value | Low offers, fees, and contract escape clauses |
| iBuyer | Fast where offered | Offer minus service and repair fees | Availability varies by market |
| List as-is with an agent | Market pace | More buyers competing | Commission and seller closing costs |
| For sale by owner, as-is | Varies | You set it | Handling disclosures and contracts yourself |
More on each: how to sell your house fast and selling without a realtor.
Disclosures still apply
Most states require sellers to disclose known material defects, often on a standard form, and as-is wording doesn't override that. For homes built before 1978, federal law requires a lead-based paint disclosure (EPA real estate disclosure rule). If you aren't sure what your state requires, ask a local agent or a real estate attorney.
How to price an as-is home
- Get a comparative market analysis of recent nearby sales.
- Get repair estimates for the big items, since buyers will.
- Consider a pre-listing inspection, so there are fewer surprises.
- Estimate your net: price minus commission, seller closing costs and payoff.
Get an as-is pricing opinion
A listing agent can tell you what similar as-is homes sold for and whether a few cheap fixes would pay off. You can talk to a local agent for a free pricing opinion with no obligation.
FAQ
Can a buyer back out of an as-is sale?
Often yes, if the contract has an inspection or financing contingency. As-is limits repair requests; it doesn't remove contingencies unless the contract says so.
Do I have to fix anything when selling as-is?
Generally no, but lender or local requirements (for example some safety items) can apply. Check with your agent.
Tell us whether you're buying or selling and where, and we'll try to connect you with a local agent. Talk to an agent